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The Fascinating History of Dentistry

Posted December 29, 2017.

Dentistry has enjoyed a rich history that is ever-evolving. From Egyptian times to modern day, many things have changed to reflect dentistry as we know it today. Read today’s blog about the fascinating history of dentistry and when and where the term “dentistry” had its origins.

Ancient Origins

The first interest in dentistry dates to 5000 BC, when “tooth worms” described the cause of dental decay. Fast forward to 2600 BC, when the first “dentist,” an Egyptian scribe, dies. The inscription on his tomb includes, “The greatest of those who deal with teeth, and of physicians.” This is the earliest known reference to a dental practitioner.

Hippocrates and Aristotle write about dentistry in 500-300 BC, which included an eruption pattern of teeth, and extracting teeth with forceps. Celus, a Roman medical writer in 100 BC, discusses oral hygiene, treatments of toothache, teething pain, and jaw fractures.

The Start of a Profession: Dentistry

In 700 AD, “silver paste,” was described in China medical texts, being a type of amalgam paste. Barber Surgeons or lay barbers, were established in France 1210 AD, who performed routine hygienic services, such as tooth extractions, bleeding, and shaving. France declared that all Barber Surgeons were prohibited from practicing all surgical procedures in 1400 AD, except leeching, cupping, bleeding, and tooth extractions.

The Little Medicinal Book for All Kinds of Diseases and Infirmities of the Teeth, the first book completely devoted to dentistry, was published in 1530. Ambrose Pare, was known as the Father of Surgery, and in 1575, he publishes his Complete Works.

The history of dentistry in Webb City, Missouri, and in the U.S., has changed with the times, to include technology that makes it easier, more comfortable, and safer to care for your oral health. Dr. Kevin Caldwell is trained to care for your dental health, and would love to see you. Call us today at 417.673.1988 for an appointment at Kevin L. Caldwell, DDS, PC.